News Details

Senate passes legislation honoring Alvin teenager

11/28/2018

December 1st, 2018 will now be known as “Blake Kinnett Day” in the state of Illinois, in honor of a teenager from Alvin who was diagnosed with Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD).

“Blake Kinnett has been an inspiration to those around him through his courage and determination,” said State Sen. Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington). “I’m proud to have this opportunity to honor him and his family.”

Blake has been a sports fan and athlete throughout most of his life, including winning two state baseball titles by the age of 12, and playing in Cooperstown, New York, with the Iliana Chiefs team despite having a broken arm at the time.

In February 2017, Blake was diagnosed with ALD, which is a genetic disease that destroys the protective myelin sheath that surrounds the brain’s neurons. There is no known cure for ALD.

The community of Alvin has also named a basketball court in his honor, Kinnett’s Court, where Blake enjoyed playing basketball. The community will also soon be having a celebration in honor of Blake’s life and his impact on the people around him.